In my ongoing effort to, uhm, branch out in the wine world (read: get paid), I’ve got myself involved in a couple more ‘extra-blogger’ activities that I thought I’d share. They are geared more towards beginner (I know, I hate that term too, but I can’t manage a better one) wine enthusiasts and so I didn’t feel that they were a fit for 1WineDude.com, but some readers might find them interesting (or doubtless you will know someone who might – which might buy you a day or two of respite from those folks asking you for wine advice!).

First, I’ve contributed some wine recommendations to the Fall 2010 issue of Publix® Grape Magazine. My contribution was made so many months ago that I don’t in fact remember what I wrote for them… and I don’t live in a state that has a Publix… so any of you in the Southeast U.S. who can refresh my memory, please feel free to help me out… Anyway, if you live in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, or Alabama you can subscribe to receive the magazine for free. Because, you know, free is a good price.

Second, you’ll start to see my reviews pop up on another iPhone app (also coming soon to Droid and Blackberry), Pocket Wine Assistant, in their new version. Because, you know, one can never have too much 1WD in one’s pocket, right? That, and I’m fond of over-extending myself. Anyway, more to come on that when he new version is released.

Just heard from my buddy who had a hand in organizing the content for the Publix mag., and here is the text of the recco. that I authored:

"Joe Roberts, Certified Specialist of Wine and creator of the award-winning 1 Wine Dude blog (www.1winedude.com)
Smoking Loon Viognier
This affordable everyday quaffer is a perfect introduction to ripe Viognier and offers surprising complexity and balance for the price. The nose has waves of pear, honeysuckle, melon and even some tropical fruit notes. The palate and mouthfeel are nice and full without being overbearing. The best part is that given its full-bodied nature, you can pour a glass of this for a friend who "only drinks Chardonnay" and they won't suspect a bait-and-switch until they're already enjoying it."

I know Smoking Loon has its detractors, but I've lost count of the number of people I've turned onto Viognier after recommending that they give that wine a try – and I still think it's a great deal for the price.

Congratulations on branching out! I've got some good friends in Philly who, I'm sure, will be interested in the new Table Matters (especially when the site's home page right now speaks of "The Epic Donut Bike Ride"). I'll send them along your way.

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